M.O.H – Maid of Honor. That’s a title I’m donning for the first time in my life this year, for my best friend Ashley’s wedding (and no, it’s not going to be like the movie).

Ash’s wedding is August 25. While August 25 may seem like a long way away, my MOH duties began long ago. Dress shopping for her dress and the bridesmaid dresses, dress fittings, many discussions of wedding details, and the best part – the bachelorette party! Ashley will be a bachelorette for another 4 months, but we chose to start celebrating early to accommodate her busy schedule as a second-year medical resident. As a former member of the Ohio State Equestrian team, and lifelong horse lover, she wanted to attend the races at Keeneland in Lexington, KY – similar to the Kentucky Derby, but much more affordable. Planning your best friend’s bachelorette party is no small task – especially with an already packed schedule like the ones we have as WPMBA students. So how did I do it, you ask? By tapping into the planning and organization skills I have acquired both at my job and at school.

The planning started with scheduling. Finding a weekend that would work for both Ashley and her 12 friends attending the party was not easy – starting early, so that everyone could set aside the weekend, was key. Then came the big things, like finding a hotel, scheduling transportation to and from the races, and buying tickets. Once those critical items were crossed off the list, I started delegating. I asked another girl to be in charge of making restaurant reservations. I asked everyone to bring food and drinks for the hotel room. I bought fun stuff for weekend, like blow-up stick horses – which were a really fun way to look like a bachelorette party! I took a cue from my experience planning trade shows and meetings at work and rather than ask everyone for input on certain things, I made the call and communicated what each girl needed to do – without being “bossy”.

In the end, the girls told me how appreciative they were of my planning – they knew where to be when, what to bring, and what to wear – all the things that are key to a successful bachelorette party. And a success it was! Despite the lousy weather, we all had a fantastic time – especially the bride. MOH success #1! Now for the wedding shower (which, luckily, her mom is planning most of) – and writing that speech!